Natasha Raskin Sharp is a highly respected Scottish television presenter, auctioneer, and antiques and art expert, celebrated for her engaging on‑screen presence and deep knowledge of fine art and collectibles. Born in Glasgow, Scotland on 15 June 1986, Natasha has built a multifaceted career that spans television broadcasting, specialist auctions, and radio presenting, earning her a loyal following among viewers in the UK and internationally.
Natasha grew up in an art‑rich environment — her father is the contemporary Scottish landscape artist Philip Raskin, and her family imbued her with an appreciation for art from an early age. Although she briefly began studying law at the University of Leeds after finishing school, Natasha quickly realised her passion lay elsewhere and transferred to the University of Glasgow to study History of Art. This academic grounding would later become the foundation for her successful career as an auctioneer and expert in Scottish contemporary art.
After completing her degree, Natasha entered the world of auctions, joining the Glasgow auction house McTear’s where she worked as an auctioneer and eventually became Head of Pictures, specializing in Scottish contemporary works. Her energy, expertise, and charismatic approach soon brought her wider recognition in both the art world and on television. In addition to her auction work, she has also launched a unique business sourcing and selling artworks directly from artists’ studios.
Natasha’s television career took off with regular appearances on BBC daytime favourites such as Antiques Road Trip, Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, Flog It!, and most notably Bargain Hunt, where she serves as an expert and presenter. Her dynamic presence and accessible explanations have made her a familiar face to fans of antiques programming in the UK and beyond, and she has even appeared on American television shows like Baggage Battles.
Beyond television, Natasha is also known for her work in radio; she presents a weekly music programme on BBC Radio Scotland, where she shares her eclectic taste spanning genres from ’70s soul to contemporary rock and jazz. Her involvement in both visual and audio media demonstrates her versatility as a communicator and entertainer.
In her personal life, Natasha is married to television producer Joe Sharp, whom she met through her work in broadcasting. The couple live in Glasgow and welcomed their first child, a daughter named Jean, in 2024. Despite her increasing fame, Natasha balances her professional commitments with family life and remains closely connected to her Scottish roots.
Early Life and Family Background
Artistic Roots and Childhood in Glasgow
Natasha Raskin Sharp was born in 1986 in Glasgow, Scotland, into a family with strong artistic and creative influences. Her father, Philip Raskin, is a well-known Scottish contemporary artist, celebrated for his seascapes and landscape paintings. Growing up in a household surrounded by art, Natasha developed an early appreciation for visual storytelling, colors, and the cultural value of artistic objects. Her grandfather, Max Raskin, was a television magician, which added a unique flair of performance and showmanship to her upbringing. These influences shaped Natasha’s understanding of creativity, performance, and the intersection of art and audience engagement.
From a young age, Natasha exhibited curiosity about the world of antiques, art history, and collectibles. Visits to galleries, museums, and local auctions were part of her formative experiences, helping her develop a keen eye for value, style, and historical significance. These early experiences would later inform her work as an auctioneer and television presenter.
Education and Early Interests
Natasha initially pursued law at the University of Leeds but quickly realized her passion lay elsewhere. The legal route, while prestigious, did not align with her creative inclinations and desire to work directly with art and antiques. She returned to Scotland and enrolled at the University of Glasgow, earning a degree in History of Art. During this time, she deepened her knowledge of artistic movements, historical periods, and the valuation of fine art and antiques.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Natasha explored opportunities outside the traditional art world. She worked at the Alice Temperley fashion house, gaining exposure to design, luxury branding, and aesthetic curation. She also participated in Barack Obama’s primary election campaign in New Hampshire in 2008, where she honed organizational and public engagement skills, even receiving a signed commendation from the then-candidate. These experiences, while seemingly diverse, contributed to her versatility and public confidence.
Career Beginnings: Auctions and Expertise
Starting at McTear’s Auction House
After completing her degree, Natasha joined McTear’s Auction House in Glasgow, where she began working as an auctioneer. Her role involved cataloging artworks, interacting with clients, and conducting sales. Her natural charisma, knowledge, and professional demeanor allowed her to quickly rise through the ranks. She eventually became Head of Pictures, specializing in Scottish contemporary art. This position gave her hands-on experience in evaluating, cataloging, and auctioning artworks, establishing her as a credible expert in the field.
Key Skills Developed in Early Career
During her time in auctions, Natasha developed several essential skills that would later prove invaluable in broadcasting:
Valuation Expertise: Learning how to determine the monetary and historical value of paintings, antiques, and collectibles.
Public Speaking: Conducting auctions honed her ability to engage audiences confidently.
Negotiation: Managing bids and client interactions sharpened her communication and persuasion skills.
Market Knowledge: Understanding trends in art sales and antiques allowed her to anticipate value shifts and investment opportunities.
Television Career: Becoming a Household Name
Natasha’s television career began when her auctioneering talent caught the attention of producers looking for dynamic experts for BBC antiques programming. Her first appearances demonstrated a unique combination of authority, warmth, and accessibility.
Key Television Shows
Bargain Hunt
As a presenter on Bargain Hunt, Natasha guides contestants and viewers through the process of buying and selling antiques. She explains historical context, highlights valuation tips, and offers advice on negotiation strategies. Her approachable style makes complex antiques knowledge understandable for general audiences.
Antiques Road Trip and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip
Natasha frequently appears on Antiques Road Trip, traveling across the UK to source rare and valuable items. These shows highlight her expertise in identifying items with investment potential, while also showcasing her engaging personality and storytelling ability.
Flog It! and For What It’s Worth
On Flog It!, Natasha evaluates items brought in by the public, helping sellers understand their potential value. Similarly, her appearances on For What It’s Worth involve historical analysis and appraisal of collectibles, demonstrating her depth of knowledge across multiple categories, from paintings and furniture to jewelry and ceramics.
Expanding Into Radio: Connecting Through Music
Natasha is also active in broadcasting beyond television. On BBC Radio Scotland, she hosts a weekly music show that blends genres such as jazz, soul, indie, and contemporary music. Her radio presence allows her to connect with audiences in a more personal and relaxed format. The show highlights her versatility and interest in broader cultural content, demonstrating that her expertise is not limited to visual art alone.
Business Ventures: Innovating in the Art World
Beyond traditional media, Natasha has explored entrepreneurial avenues in the art and antiques sectors. In 2021, she launched a business model that auctions artworks directly from artists’ studios. This approach bypasses conventional gallery systems, providing emerging and established artists with direct exposure to buyers while educating clients about the art market. This venture illustrates her commitment to supporting artists and promoting modern approaches to art sales.
Lessons From Her Business Approach
Innovation: Identifying gaps in traditional systems and creating more direct solutions.
Community Support: Elevating artists by connecting them directly with collectors.
Market Adaptation: Recognizing shifts toward online auctions and alternative sales channels.
Brand Building: Leveraging her public profile to give credibility and visibility to the venture.
Personal Life: Family and Values
Marriage and Motherhood
Natasha is married to television producer Joe Sharp, whom she met while working on BBC antiques shows. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to creativity, media production, and cultural projects. In January 2024, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Jean. Natasha has balanced motherhood with ongoing work in television, radio, and business, highlighting her ability to manage multiple demanding roles.
Personality and Public Image
Natasha’s personality is often described as approachable, warm, and engaging. She maintains authenticity in her public appearances, whether on television, radio, or social media. This accessibility has endeared her to audiences, making her one of the most respected figures in UK antiques broadcasting.
Practical Tips From Natasha Raskin Sharp’s Career
Natasha’s journey offers lessons for anyone interested in antiques, broadcasting, or creative industries:
Follow Your Passion: Her shift from law to art history illustrates the importance of pursuing what genuinely excites you.
Build Expertise: Knowledge and credibility are foundational; her success is rooted in real-world experience.
Communicate Clearly: Public speaking, presentation, and audience engagement are key in any field.
Innovate: Identifying opportunities in traditional markets can lead to new business models.
Diversify Platforms: Engaging across television, radio, and business strengthens influence and reach.
Understanding Antiques and Art: Insights From Natasha
Natasha’s expertise can be distilled into practical advice for collectors, enthusiasts, and aspiring professionals:
How to Evaluate Antiques
Historical Context: Understand the period in which the item was created.
Materials and Craftsmanship: Examine quality, authenticity, and originality.
Provenance: Track ownership history to ensure legitimacy.
Market Trends: Study current demand, rarity, and resale potential.
Buying and Selling Tips
Start Small: Begin with items you can afford and understand well.
Do Research: Check auction results, catalogues, and valuations.
Consult Experts: Seek advice from auctioneers, historians, or appraisers.
Negotiate Wisely: Know your limits and potential resale value.
Maintain Items: Proper care can significantly affect longevity and value.
Trends in Antiques and Broadcasting (2025)
Growing Popularity of Antiques Shows
Antiques programming has experienced renewed interest as audiences seek educational entertainment. Natasha’s presence on multiple high-profile programs ensures she remains relevant in a genre that blends history, economics, and human storytelling.
Digital Auctions and Direct Artist Sales
The shift toward online platforms and direct-to-consumer sales has reshaped the art and antiques markets. Natasha’s studio-to-auction model exemplifies this trend, bridging traditional expertise with modern technology.
Social Media and Personal Branding
Public figures in antiques now leverage social media for outreach, marketing, and education. Natasha maintains a curated presence that balances privacy with engagement, offering insights without overexposure.
Real-Life Examples of Natasha’s Influence
Educating Audiences: Through shows like Bargain Hunt, viewers gain practical knowledge about valuation, history, and antiques culture.
Supporting Emerging Artists: Her auction initiatives provide a platform for artists to reach collectors directly.
Inspiring Broadcasters: Natasha’s career demonstrates that niche expertise can translate into mainstream media opportunities.
Cultural Impact: Her approachable style helps make antiques and art accessible to younger audiences.
Step-by-Step Guide: Following a Career Path Similar to Natasha’s
Pursue Relevant Education: Study art history, design, or a related field to build foundational knowledge.
Gain Practical Experience: Work in auctions, galleries, or museums to develop hands-on skills.
Develop Communication Skills: Practice public speaking, writing, and presentation.
Explore Media Opportunities: Volunteer or audition for television, radio, or digital platforms.
Build a Personal Brand: Maintain authenticity, professionalism, and a visible presence in your niche.
Innovate and Adapt: Identify new business models or content approaches in your field.
FAQs
What is Natasha Raskin Sharp best known for?
Natasha is best known as a Scottish television presenter and antiques expert, appearing on BBC shows like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip.
Where did she grow up and study?
She grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, and studied History of Art at the University of Glasgow after initially pursuing law at the University of Leeds.
What business ventures is she involved in?
Natasha launched a business auctioning artworks directly from artists’ studios, creating opportunities for emerging talent and buyers.
Is she active in radio?
Yes, she hosts a weekly music show on BBC Radio Scotland, showcasing her eclectic taste in genres like jazz, soul, and indie.
Does Natasha Raskin Sharp have a family?
She is married to television producer Joe Sharp, and they have a daughter named Jean, born in January 2024.
Final Thoughts
Natasha Raskin Sharp’s journey exemplifies how passion, expertise, and versatility can combine to create a remarkable career. From her early exposure to art in Glasgow to her multi-platform influence as a television presenter, auctioneer, radio host, and entrepreneur, Natasha has demonstrated that authenticity, knowledge, and innovation are critical to professional success. Her story provides inspiration for aspiring broadcasters, antiques enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to carve a niche in creative industries. Through education, innovation, and engagement, Natasha continues to impact the worlds of art, antiques, and media, leaving a lasting legacy for both her audience and the industry she represents.
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